Encourages Count Rumford to revisit his native country - the United States - and insists that he will be well-received. Discusses the military academy and states that he has been authorized to offer him the position of Inspector General of the Artillery

Responds to the request from Count Rumford to visit the United States, where he was born, if possible, for the purpose of donating his collection of military materials to an academy. McHenry forwarded the request to the President, with recommendations, and conveys the President's response. Mc Henry also thanks King and Trumbull for items sent from England.

Adams lists the qualities of Sir Benjamin Thompson, Count Rumford, acknowledging that it it is complicated to offer positions to those who left the country as he did [as a Tory], but authorizes McHenry to offer him any of the officer appointments listed in McHenry's previous letter - lieutenant colonel of an artillery & engineer regiment, independent lt. col. of engineers, inspector of artillery,...

Reminds Adams of the wish of the American-born Count Rumford to return to America; forwards some correspondence with him, noting that he has applied for an appointment in the U.S. military, which, given Rumford's many skills, would be a boon for the army. Reminds Adams that there are still a lieutenant colonel's vacancy in one of the Artillerists and Engineers regiments, two independent...

Acknowledges receipt of letter and invitation. Expresses humble gratitude. Declines offer based on commitments, but hopes to visit America and pay his respects to the President. [Known previously as Benjamin Thompson]

Harper discusses his current situation as a lawyer in Baltimore but assures McHenry that he stands ready to return to military service if the need should arise. He would require at least a colonel's commission although he would expect to be a brigadier. He fears an attack by the French.

Politely turns down the United States' offer to make him Inspector General of the Artillery, explaining that he already has too many engagements and obligations. Concludes, however, by stating his intention to make a visit to America, his native country.

Expresses desire that he return to his native country to be welcomed openly. Requests his service in American military, particularly to command a military academy with the appointment of Inspector General of the United States.

The Secretary of State informs Washington's Cabinet that the President thinks it improper that the petition of the "Democratic Society of the Count of Washington, in Pennsylvania" is inadmissible, since it is a body whose constitution is not known by law. The Democratic Society petitioned for the undisturbed navigation of the Mississippi River, which they deemed inseparable from prosperity.